Teen drowns in lake just hours after graduating high school in Kansas: Reports

2024-12-24 07:50:14 source: category:News

A high school senior in Coffeyville, Kansas died from drowning just hours after graduating, according to reports.

Donations are pouring in for the family of the 17-year-old. According to a GoFundMe page, the funds will be used for funeral, medical, and other expenses for Alonzo Juan Juan's family. It also aims to help with the costs of transporting him to his family in Guatemala, where he is from.

Juan, a student at Field Kindley High School, drowned in Labette County's Big Hill Lake on Saturday, May 18, while with his friends celebrating obtaining his high school diploma, per the GoFundMe and local outlet KJRH. His body was recovered by a rescue team that evening.

"Many of us, like family, friends, [and] coworkers are deeply hurt with the news we received," the fundraiser said.

USA TODAY reached out to Field Kindley High School for additional comment.

Tragic drownings:2 teens die in suspected drownings after accepting dare, jumping off bridge into lake

School officials describe him as 'hardworking'

Coffeyville Public Schools confirmed Juan's passing with KJRH. School administrators reflected on his journey, specifically how he entered the district in middle school knowing only his native Mayan language.

During an interview with the outlet, Lisa Stockton, the district's ESL learning program director, touted the teen as a "hardworking student."

"It was a huge shock to us and our community, "Stockton said, adding, "He was very involved with the other students. It just proves that hard work and dedication and having goals is worthwhile. You can work towards those and meet them. He was a perfect example of that."

A former high school teacher, Shayla Reliford, told the news station that Juan had aspirations to become a doctor.

Tragic drowings:3 young men drown in Florida's Caloosahatchee River while trying to save someone else

School schedules vigil in the teen's honor

Field Kindley High School acknowledged Juan's passing in a Facebook post that included information about a candlelight vigil in his honor to be held on Thursday.

So far, the GoFundMe has raised over $5,600 of a $27,000 goal.

"He was born August 21, 2006 and he was loved by so many and touched lots of hearts with his kindness and sweet words. This isn’t goodbye it’s see you later," the fundraiser continued.

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